Olivia Carter
Cooking beef filet in a cast iron skillet is a great way to achieve a delicious and flavorful dish that is sure to impress your guests. This cooking method allows for the meat to develop a nice crust while remaining tender and juicy on the inside. With a few simple steps, you can master the art of cooking beef filet in a cast iron skillet.
Before cooking the beef filet, it is important to choose a good quality cut of meat. Look for filet mignon or tenderloin, as they are known for their tenderness and flavor. Let the meat come to room temperature and pat it dry with a paper towel to ensure a better sear.
Preheat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Cast iron skillets are ideal for cooking beef filet as they distribute heat evenly and retain it well. Add a tablespoon of oil to the skillet and let it heat up.
Season the beef filet generously with salt and pepper. You can also add your favorite herbs and spices to enhance the flavor. Place the steak in the hot skillet and let it sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until a golden brown crust forms.
Preparing the Beef Filet
Before cooking the beef filet in a cast iron skillet, it is important to properly season and prepare the meat. Follow these steps to ensure a delicious and tender steak:
- Start by selecting a high-quality beef filet. Look for a cut that is well-marbled with fat for maximum flavor.
- Remove the beef filet from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will allow for even cooking.
- Trim any excess fat from the steak, but leave a thin layer to help enhance the flavor and tenderness.
- Season the steak generously with salt and pepper on all sides. You can also add any additional spices or herbs of your choice.
- Preheat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. It is important to get the skillet nice and hot for the perfect sear.
- Once the skillet is hot, add a small amount of oil or butter to the pan. This will help prevent the steak from sticking.
- Gently place the seasoned beef filet in the skillet, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Let it sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side for a medium-rare doneness.
- Using tongs, carefully flip the steak to sear the other side. Cook the steak for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
- Once cooked to your liking, remove the beef filet from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before cutting into it. This will help retain the juices and ensure a tender and flavorful steak.
Now that your beef filet is perfectly cooked in a cast iron skillet, you are ready to enjoy a delicious and juicy steak. Serve it with your favorite side dishes and enjoy!
Seasoning the Filet
Before cooking the beef filet in a cast iron skillet, it is important to properly season it to enhance its natural flavors. Here are some steps to follow:
Step 1: Choose the right seasoning
There are various seasonings you can use to enhance the flavor of your beef filet. Some popular choices include salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs like thyme or rosemary. Choose a seasoning blend that complements the natural taste of the beef without overpowering it.
Step 2: Pat the filet dry
Before applying the seasoning, make sure to pat the beef filet dry with a paper towel. This will remove any excess moisture, allowing the seasonings to adhere better to the surface of the meat.
Step 3: Apply the seasoning
Generously sprinkle the seasoning mixture all over the beef filet. Make sure to coat all sides evenly, including the edges. Gently press the seasonings against the meat to ensure they adhere well.
Step 4: Let it sit
After seasoning the filet, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to penetrate into the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender steak.
Step 5: Use a light oil coating
Prior to cooking the seasoned filet in a cast iron skillet, lightly coat it with a high smoke point oil like canola or vegetable oil. This helps to prevent sticking and promotes a nice sear on the steak.
| Tip: | If you prefer a bolder flavor, consider marinating the beef filet overnight in your desired marinade before seasoning it. |
By properly seasoning the beef filet before cooking it in a cast iron skillet, you can elevate its flavors and create a mouthwatering steak that is sure to impress your guests or satisfy your own cravings.
Preheating the Cast Iron Skillet
Preheating the cast iron skillet is a crucial step in achieving a perfectly seared beef filet. The high heat of the skillet helps create a flavorful crust on the outside of the filet while maintaining a juicy interior.
Here’s how to preheat your cast iron skillet:
- Place the cast iron skillet on the stovetop over medium-high heat.
- Allow the skillet to heat for at least 5 minutes, or until it is hot to the touch.
- If desired, you can test the heat of the skillet by sprinkling a few droplets of water onto the surface. If the water sizzles and evaporates immediately, the skillet is ready.
It’s important to note that preheating the cast iron skillet properly can help prevent the beef filet from sticking to the pan. The hot skillet creates a natural non-stick surface, allowing you to easily flip the filet without tearing or losing any of the delicious crust.
Besides preventing sticking, preheating the skillet also ensures that the filet cooks evenly. The high heat helps sear the outside of the filet quickly, locking in the juices and flavors, while the interior cooks to the desired level of doneness.
Once your cast iron skillet is properly preheated, you’re ready to cook your beef filet to perfection!
Cooking the Filet in the Skillet
Once your skillet is preheated, it’s time to cook the beef filet. Here’s how to do it:
1. Prepare the Filet
Before cooking the filet, make sure to remove it from the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature. This will ensure even cooking. Pat the filet dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture and season it with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the Skillet
Heat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until it becomes hot. You can test the temperature by adding a few droplets of water to the skillet – if they sizzle and evaporate quickly, the skillet is ready for cooking.
3. Add Oil or Butter
Once the skillet is hot, you can add a small amount of oil or butter to prevent the filet from sticking. You can use olive oil, vegetable oil, or clarified butter for this step. Swirl the oil or butter around the skillet to evenly coat the surface.
4. Sear the Filet
Gently place the filet in the skillet, making sure it is laying flat and fully touching the surface. Allow the filet to sear undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes, or until a golden brown crust forms on the bottom. Flip the filet using tongs and sear the other side for another 2-3 minutes.
5. Finish in the Oven
If you prefer your filet cooked to medium-rare or medium, you can transfer the skillet to a preheated oven to finish cooking. This will help ensure the filet is evenly cooked throughout. Cook the filet in the oven for 6-8 minutes or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
Remember to use an oven mitt or potholder when handling the hot skillet. When the filet is done cooking, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and ensure a tender and flavorful filet.
Now that you know how to cook a succulent beef filet in a cast iron skillet, you can confidently create a delicious and impressive meal right in your own kitchen. Enjoy!
Resting and Serving the Filet
Once the beef filet is cooked to your desired level of doneness, it is important to allow it to rest before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Remove the filet from the cast iron skillet and transfer it to a cutting board. Tent the steak loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for about 5 to 10 minutes. This resting period will also help the filet reach its final internal temperature if you prefer it cooked more well-done.
While the steak is resting, you can prepare any accompanying sauces or sides you’d like to serve with the filet. Some popular options include a red wine reduction, a creamy peppercorn sauce, or simple sautéed mushrooms.
After the resting period, remove the aluminum foil and carefully slice the filet against the grain into thick, even slices. This will ensure tenderness and optimal texture.
Plate the sliced filet and garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme for a pop of color and added flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy your perfectly cooked beef filet!
FAQ
What is the best type of beef filet to use for this recipe?
The best type of beef filet to use for this recipe is a tenderloin filet. It is known for its tenderness and rich flavor.
Can I use a different type of skillet instead of a cast iron skillet?
While a cast iron skillet is recommended for this recipe because it retains heat well and gives a nice sear, you can use a different type of skillet if you don’t have a cast iron one. Just make sure it is oven-safe.
What is the ideal cooking time for a medium-rare beef filet?
The ideal cooking time for a medium-rare beef filet depends on the thickness of the filet and the desired level of doneness. As a general guideline, a 1-inch thick filet will take about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare. However, it is best to use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the desired internal temperature of 135°F (57°C).
